World Wildlife Fund History
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) was officially established on September 11, 1961 in Morges Switzerland. It was founded by Prince Bernhard of Lippe-Biesterfeld, Julian Huxley, Max Nicholson, Peter Scott, Guy Mountfort, and Godfrey A. Rockefeller. These individuals came together and started the largest worldwide conservation organization to date.
In the 1960s: the WWF raised over 5.6million USD, which was a huge sum of money during that time period. In addition to raising so much money a number of projects were completed which was an essential foundation for the WWF. In 1962 the WWF opened a research station in the Galapagos Islands. This research station housed researchers from around the world. From this research the Galapagos Special Law was passed in 1998 which created the second largest marine conservation reserve during this decade.
In the 1970s: the WWF launched a large fund raiser to provide it with the solid financial backing that it needed to succeed and grow. The WWF organized a $10 million USD fund known as The 1001 Nature Trust. In total, 1,001 individuals contributed $10,000 USD each so that the WWF could reach its goals. In 1973 the WWF started a project to protect the tiger in India. These tigers were severely endangered and were on the verge of becoming extinct. India's government eventually put together land for a total of nine tiger reservations. Several other countries such as Bangladesh and Nepal did the same.
In the 1980s: The World Wildlife Fund started a collaborative agreement with IUCN and the United Nations Environment Programme. Together they formed a joint World Conservation Strategy that was endorsed by the United Nations. This initiative started in 34 world capitals simultaneously. In 1986 the WWF officially changed its name to the World Wide Fund For Nature. However, the United States and Canada kept the original name.
In the 1990s: In the early decade, the WWF helped control the ivory trade which was spawning out of control. It also pressured governments to sign agreements on biodiversity and climate change. In the UK, the WWF began working with a group of manufacturers and retailers to stop the sale of wood that does not come from certified forests. These uncertified forests cause an enormous amount of unwanted deforestation around the world.
In 2010: the WWF reached £525 million in contributions for its cause. This funding goes to an enormous amount of conservation projects worldwide. In addition the WWF takes part in lobbying, research, and consultancy. Pressuring governments to take part in conservation within their countries is key to lasting change. In addition the WWF seeks to raise awareness among children through sponsorships at zoo's world wide. In the future the WWF promises to continue campaigning and lobbying to improve conditions here on Earth. It will also continue to be a influential global leader on the environment and protection.